Embezzlement in Virginia is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-111, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $2,500, depending on the value of the misappropriated property. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across Virginia, including 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Embezzlement Lawyer in Virginia
Under Va. Code § 18.2-111, embezzlement is defined as the fraudulent appropriation of property entrusted to a person by another. This statute applies to employees, agents, or fiduciaries who unlawfully take or convert funds or assets for their own use. The prosecution must prove that you had lawful possession of the property and then intentionally misappropriated it. A conviction for embezzlement is a felony, with penalties escalating based on the value of the property involved. For property valued at $1,000 or more, you face up to 20 years in prison. For property under $1,000, the charge may be treated as a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia General District Court (misdemeanor) and Virginia Circuit Court (felony) | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For the full text of the embezzlement statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-111 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on Virginia’s criminal court procedures, visit Virginia’s Judicial System (courts.state.va.us — official site).
In Virginia General District Courts and Circuit Courts, prosecutors routinely rely on financial records and witness testimony to build embezzlement cases. We have observed that many charges stem from employer audits or internal investigations. The prosecution must prove intent to permanently deprive the owner of property, which can be challenged through evidence of authorization or lack of criminal intent.
- Do not speak to law enforcement or your employer without an attorney present.
- Preserve all financial records, emails, and documents related to the alleged misappropriation.
- Contact an experienced embezzlement lawyer immediately to evaluate the charges.
- Review the prosecution’s evidence for procedural or constitutional violations.
- Consider negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable resolution cannot be reached.
In Virginia, embezzlement carries penalties that vary based on the value of the misappropriated property, with felony convictions resulting in significant prison time and fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement ($1,000+) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $2,500 | Potential professional license revocation | Permanent criminal record, loss of employment, difficulty obtaining housing |
| Embezzlement (Under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential professional license impact | Permanent criminal record, employment consequences |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm’s “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy ensures that every client receives dedicated, strategic representation. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, applies his insider knowledge of the criminal justice system to build strong defenses for clients facing embezzlement charges. The firm’s team includes attorneys with backgrounds as former prosecutors and law enforcement officers, providing a unique perspective on how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across Virginia, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Richmond is accessible from Virginia General District Courts and Circuit Courts throughout the state via I-64, I-95, and I-295. We serve as an embezzlement lawyer near all Virginia communities. Serving the communities of all Virginia cities and counties. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (804) 201-9009
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embezzlement in Virginia
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?
It depends. Defense strategies for embezzlement in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-111 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing embezzlement charges in Virginia?
Yes. If facing embezzlement charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Fairfax County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months…. Early legal representation is critical — Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals;… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Fairfax County General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax County Circuit Court (felony) (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax (City), Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Fairfax (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax (City) Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months…. Early legal representation is critical — Fairfax City General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Fairfax City Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals;… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Fairfax (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Fairfax (City) Circuit Court (felony) (10455 Armstrong Street, Room 101, Fairfax, VA 22030) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Falls Church (City), Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Falls Church (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Falls Church (City) Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months…. Early legal representation is critical — Falls Church General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Falls Church Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals;… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Falls Church (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Falls Church (City) Circuit Court (felony) (300 Park Avenue, Suite 151W, Falls Church, VA 22046) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
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Last verified: April 2026